NEW DELHI: Twenty-one people were killed in the devastating Malviya Nagar fire on Wednesday (June 3) as investigators began examining a series of alleged safety and regulatory violations at the hotel-cum-guest house where the blaze broke out.
Preliminary findings suggest the establishment, which reportedly had permission to operate only six rooms, was running nearly 25 rooms and accommodating around 40 guests at the time of the tragedy. Most of those killed are believed to be African nationals staying at the property.
With 21 lives lost and several others battling injuries, authorities have begun examining whether any safety lapses at the property made it harder for people to escape. Questions are also being raised about the building’s safety features, with officials probing whether narrow windows and limited exits hampered efforts to escape the blaze.
Officials are also examining unverified claims that the basement was locked from the outside.
The fire broke out at Flourish Stay B&B in Malviya Nagar at around 8.48 am, triggering a massive rescue operation involving the Delhi Fire Services, police and disaster response teams.
According to Delhi Police, more than 40 people were rescued and shifted to hospitals, while 21 were declared dead.
People jumped to escape flames
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as occupants struggled to find a way out of the building.
Several people reportedly jumped from upper floors after smoke and flames cut off escape routes. Local residents spread mattresses on the road below and used ropes in an effort to rescue those trapped inside.
One resident said cries for help could be heard from the upper floors as locals rushed to break windows and create escape paths.
Forensic team begins investigation
A forensic team visited the site on Wednesday afternoon as authorities began collecting evidence to determine the cause of the fire and whether any building, licensing or fire safety norms were violated.
Delhi Minister Ashish Sood said strict action would be taken against those found responsible.
“The building owner who is responsible for negligence will be arrested. We will not spare any illegal building, and those found guilty,” he said.
The minister said officials were examining whether the required permissions and clearances had been obtained for operating the establishment.
Several victims remain critical
Officials said dozens of injured people were admitted to hospitals across the city.
Max Hospital, Saket, said it received 39 patients, including 18 who were brought dead. Fifteen patients remain admitted in intensive care, with eight on ventilator support and in critical condition.
The hospital said the deceased included both Indian and foreign nationals.
The search and rescue operation concluded at 12.12 pm, according to DDMA officials, though investigators and forensic teams continued to examine the site late into the evening. - The Statesman/ANN
